Moti Mahal Challenges Daryaganj’s Trademark over Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani in Delhi High Court
The iconic Delhi restaurant Moti Mahal has filed a plea with the Delhi High Court, seeking the cancellation of the trademark registered by Daryaganj restaurant chain. The trademark in question, “DARYAGANJ: BY THE INVENTORS OF BUTTER CHICKEN & DAL MAKHANI,” was granted on March 14, 2018, on a ‘proposed to be used’ basis. Moti Mahal contends that Daryaganj’s claim to have invented Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani is false.
Moti Mahal’s Longstanding Tagline
Moti Mahal asserts that it has been using the tagline “Inventors of Original Dal Makhani, Tandoori Chicken & Butter Chicken” since 2005. They argue that Daryaganj’s trademark is nearly identical to their well-known tagline, merely adding the word ‘DARYAGANJ,’ which does not differentiate it sufficiently. Moti Mahal maintains that this tagline has been exclusively theirs and is still in use.
Legal Proceedings and Representations
Justice Anish Dayal heard the initial applications and issued a notice regarding the plea. The matter is scheduled to be heard in July by Justice Sanjeev Narula, who is already handling Moti Mahal’s suit against Daryaganj. Moti Mahal’s case is presented by Senior Advocate Chander M Lall, supported by advocates Shreya Sethi and Anirudh Bhatia. On the other hand, Daryaganj is represented by Advocate Pravin Anand.
Historical Claims and Recent Legal Actions
In addition to the plea for trademark cancellation, Moti Mahal filed a civil suit in January 2024 against Daryaganj, accusing them of misleading the public into believing a connection exists between the two restaurant chains. Moti Mahal emphasizes its historical significance, with its first branch established in Delhi’s Daryaganj neighborhood. Daryaganj counters this claim by highlighting that the first Moti Mahal restaurant was a joint venture between the predecessors of both parties in Peshawar.
The case, revolving around the origin and rightful claim to the invention of Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani, is poised for further hearings before Justice Narula on May 29.
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